Madonna's Met Gala dress 'a political statement as well as a fashion statement'

Madonna has defended the revealing dress she wore to the Met Gala in New York, saying it was a "political statement as well as a fashion statement".

The 57-year-old raised eyebrows with a racy, lacy black dress which exposed her buttocks and barely covered her breasts.

The annual fashion event is known for the often controversial outfits worn by celebrities, but the Queen of Pop has insisted that her outfit choice was a statement about women's rights.

She explained on Instagram: "We have fought and continue to fight for civil rights and gay rights around the world. When it comes to women's rights we are still in the dark ages. My dress at the Met Ball was a political statement as well as a fashion statement.

"The fact that people actually believe a woman is not allowed to express her sexuality and be adventurous past a certain age is proof that we still live in an ageist and sexist society. I have never thought in a limited way and I'm not going to start."

The Rebel Heart singer went on to say that you cannot "effect change" without taking risks and added: "That's how we change history."

"If you have a problem with the way I dress it is simply a reflection of your prejudice," she wrote. "I'm not afraid to pave the way for all the girls behind me!! As Nina Simone once said, the definition of freedom is being fearless."

She ended her message referencing one of her new songs and her Rebel Heart tour, urging her fans to "Join my fight for Gender. Equality!"

Her bondage-inspired outfit was made by luxury French brand Givenchy, to fit in with this year's Met Gala theme of Manus x Machina: Fashion In An Age Of Technology.

Dame Joan Collins warned on Wednesday that Madonna's sons may get teased as a result of the risque outfit.

She told ITV's Good Morning Britain: "I thought it was a costume party or a Halloween look, but it's the Met Ball, which is supposed to be one of the most glamorous and fashionable events, and I thought the bottom coming out was a bit over the top."

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